Top 10 General Contractors in Northbrook, IL

Porch Pro Headshot Royal Construction
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(454)
With decades of experience and natural talent, you'd think Stan, the owner of Royal Construction, had been doing it for all his life. In reality, Stan was on a very different career path until, one day, he decided to leave it behind and pursue a new course into construction. After years of working w...Read more about Royal Construction
With decades of experience and natural talent, you'd think Stan, the owner of Royal Construction, had been doing it for all his life. In reality, Stan was on a very different career path until, one day, he decided to leave it behind and pursue a new course into construction. After years of working w...Read more about Royal Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Garage Door Repair Highland Park IL
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
Garage Door Repair Highland Park IL is a prominent source of garage door service that you can trust. We are well-experienced and credible in handling all sorts of concerns on overhead garage doors. We are ready to work on everything from their installation to their maintenance. We make sure that our...Read more about Garage Door Repair Highland Park IL
Garage Door Repair Highland Park IL is a prominent source of garage door service that you can trust. We are well-experienced and credible in handling all sorts of concerns on overhead garage doors. We are ready to work on everything from their installation to their maintenance. We make sure that our...Read more about Garage Door Repair Highland Park IL
Porch Pro Headshot Garage Door Repair Northfield
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(37)
"When my opener stopped working, I knew I had to act quickly. I phoned this company, and they sent someone right away. He was very friendly, and told me he could fix it or help me choose a new one. I chose to go with the repair, and he got everything working before I knew it!"
"When my opener stopped working, I knew I had to act quickly. I phoned this company, and they sent someone right away. He was very friendly, and told me he could fix it or help me choose a new one. I chose to go with the repair, and he got everything working before I knew it!"
Porch Pro Headshot Dream Home Services, Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(4)
"What can we not say about Rafal, Henry, and Adam. Rafal runs a tight ship, very professional, excellent communicator, reliable, timely, man of his word, goes above and beyond (purchased tile that we were missing, picked it up, showed us the materials receipt, etc) will do what you are paying him to...Read more about Dream Home Services, Inc.
"What can we not say about Rafal, Henry, and Adam. Rafal runs a tight ship, very professional, excellent communicator, reliable, timely, man of his word, goes above and beyond (purchased tile that we were missing, picked it up, showed us the materials receipt, etc) will do what you are paying him to...Read more about Dream Home Services, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Lupfer Builders
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(6)
"We used Lupfer Builders for several renovation projects at our home in Park Ridge. The projects ranged from a major kitchen rehab to creating two show-worthy bathrooms from an existing small bathroom and adjacent spare room. In all their work, Lupfer employees were responsible, highly responsive an...Read more about Lupfer Builders
"We used Lupfer Builders for several renovation projects at our home in Park Ridge. The projects ranged from a major kitchen rehab to creating two show-worthy bathrooms from an existing small bathroom and adjacent spare room. In all their work, Lupfer employees were responsible, highly responsive an...Read more about Lupfer Builders
Porch Pro Headshot Orren Pickell Building Group
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(57)
Your family's home is without question, one of the most personal and significant investments you will ever consider, and at Building Group, we have a unique appreciation for this truth. With over 35 years of proven success and scores of delighted customers, we strive each day to offer the services a...Read more about Orren Pickell Building Group
Your family's home is without question, one of the most personal and significant investments you will ever consider, and at Building Group, we have a unique appreciation for this truth. With over 35 years of proven success and scores of delighted customers, we strive each day to offer the services a...Read more about Orren Pickell Building Group
Porch Pro Headshot CALLAHAN & PETERS INC
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(27)
Callahan & Peters is a full service design/build remodeling firm located in Glenview serving the North Shore and surrounding communities for over 60 years. They are certified by the National Association of Home Builders as Aging In Place Specialists (CAPS) and the National Association of the Remodel...Read more about CALLAHAN & PETERS INC
Callahan & Peters is a full service design/build remodeling firm located in Glenview serving the North Shore and surrounding communities for over 60 years. They are certified by the National Association of Home Builders as Aging In Place Specialists (CAPS) and the National Association of the Remodel...Read more about CALLAHAN & PETERS INC
Porch Pro Headshot Michael Menn Ltd.
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(32)
At Michael Menn Ltd., we offer a single source for design (architecture) and build (construction) excellence. We strive to exceed the goals of our clients, be it for renovation, remodeling, room additions or new construction. On the residential side, we do kitchens, bath suites, and complete ...Read more about Michael Menn Ltd.
At Michael Menn Ltd., we offer a single source for design (architecture) and build (construction) excellence. We strive to exceed the goals of our clients, be it for renovation, remodeling, room additions or new construction. On the residential side, we do kitchens, bath suites, and complete ...Read more about Michael Menn Ltd.
Porch Pro Headshot Exterior Reflections, Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
Combining years of experience with a dedication to client satisfaction, Exterior Reflections, Inc. has established itself as the local leader in General Contractors, and Home Remodeling Contractors. When it comes to General Contractors, and Home Remodeling Contractors, no one compares to Exterior R...Read more about Exterior Reflections, Inc.
Combining years of experience with a dedication to client satisfaction, Exterior Reflections, Inc. has established itself as the local leader in General Contractors, and Home Remodeling Contractors. When it comes to General Contractors, and Home Remodeling Contractors, no one compares to Exterior R...Read more about Exterior Reflections, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Angel R. Construction
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(8)
"Angel recently put a backsplash in our kitchen, and hung some new lights for us. Not only did he do a great job with the projects, but he was friendly and easy to work with every step of the way. He was trustworthy, reliable, and dedicated to getting the job done right. I plan to hire Angel again f...Read more about Angel R. Construction
50% response rate
"Angel recently put a backsplash in our kitchen, and hung some new lights for us. Not only did he do a great job with the projects, but he was friendly and easy to work with every step of the way. He was trustworthy, reliable, and dedicated to getting the job done right. I plan to hire Angel again f...Read more about Angel R. Construction

Frequently asked questions about general contractors

A general contractor oversees building and remodeling projects from start to finish. Their main priority is making sure that a project progresses according to the schedule, is on budget, and that all work is done properly. All other contractors and workers answer to the general contractor and they answer to the client who hired them.

Start by getting bids from different contractors. Bids lay out your expected cost and the extent of the project, including materials, labor, and when the project will be done. If you have a local contractor in mind, feel free to work with them in negotiating the terms of a bid, rather than putting out a competitive bid request. Terms typically outline payment installments, an expected timeline for milestones, and the expected outcome at each phase of the project.

Once you've signed the contract with the general contractor, they bring in the workers and begin on the project. Throughout the course of the project, the general contractor manages all workers and subcontractors. General contractors generally own or work for a company that handles one or two aspects of building and remodeling. Very few do framing, finishing, electrical, concrete, plumbing, and landscaping on their own. So, it's quite common for general contractors to outsource work from other companies. The general contractor handles the hiring of these subcontractors, as well as paying them and their own workers. You only have to worry about paying the general contractor.

Hiring multiple subcontractors for a job might seem more economical, but it would put much of the decision-making on you. What you might save in money may be offset by the amount of time and mental energy you'd have to put into the project. An experienced general contractor knows the ins and outs of the construction business. They understand how to structure a project and work with subcontractors to get projects completed safely, and on schedule. This leaves the day-to-day decisions to someone with more experience.

The licensing rules in some states require hiring a general contractor for certain projects. If the state doesn't require a general contractor in your case, it makes good sense to hire a licensed and insured local contractor.

General contractors live by their reputation. They work hard to build trust with their clients and honor that trust through their management of construction projects. Even if they never lift a hammer during the course of a job, they feel a great sense of ownership of the whole operation.

General contractors usually have a vast knowledge of local building codes. Their understanding of construction and people management helps all subcontractors to work together. They see how each piece fits together to make a completed project. Subcontractors may take a narrow view of their role, which could cause problems for other subcontractors working on the next step. General contractors work closely with their crews, subcontractors, and you to prevent costly miscommunication.

Whether you're hiring a home contractor to build your dream house or searching "general contractors in my area" to oversee a remodel project, you'll be working closely with whomever you choose.

When you get underway with your contractor, you'll begin by sorting out every possible detail. Before work begins, the contractor will work out a project plan with you. The project plan may include determining fixtures, finishes, and furnishings — to avoid any cost gaps in the initial bid. The more specific you are, the more realistic and accurate the bid will be.

Make sure it’s OK to call or text your contractor throughout the day. Even if they aren't always available, they should provide you with contact information for a lead person or someone else you can discuss the project with. When possible, visit the job site. This gives the contractor or lead the opportunity to bring up any issues and ask any questions about specifics that weren't covered in the project plan.

It's also helpful to keep a project journal. Write down product order numbers. Jot down questions and ideas, and note delivery dates. This can make it easier to sort out any disputes that may arise later. Track any changes to the initial project plan in writing. If unforeseen changes occur, make sure to get a bid change in writing.

Other helpful tips:

  • Check on work as it progresses
  • Pay only for completed work
  • Be a fair customer by paying bills on time, responding quickly to questions, and treating your contractor and their workers fairly
  • Know the workers’ names, and make sure they have what they need
  • Establishing a good working relationship with your contractor from the beginning will lead to a more successful project

Some general contractors charge a flat fee. Most charge a markup, which is a percentage of the overall completed project cost. The markup amount covers their overhead, including advertising, insurance, office expenses, and their own salary. The contractor should outline all payments and expenses in the contract at the outset.

Contractors typically ask for a percentage of the total project cost upfront. This initial fee covers the cost of getting the project started, provides workers with their wages for the first phase of the construction, and helps serve as a deposit for the needed materials and supplies. Fifteen percent is a fair and decent initial payment for getting a project started. Most states cap this initial fee at 33%, and a good contractor should have good enough credit to cover remaining up-front costs.

After each phase or "milestone" gets completed, your contract will likely require you to pay more money toward the project. These installments are an expected part of the construction process to cover wages, additional supplies, and materials the contractor may need to continue. Even the most well-off contractor would quickly run out of money to move forward if they didn't include installment payments into their contracts.

A big project is a costly endeavor and a long-term investment. When choosing a general contractor, it makes sense to look beyond just the contractor’s fee. Be sure to hire someone that can provide proof of licensing, insurance, and references. Take the time to look into their track record. A good general contractor will leave a trail of stellar online reviews, and when you talk to former clients, they'll have only good things to say. When you enter a project with a contractor, you need a pro you trust with your home, so it’s wise to do your homework ahead of time to ensure a successful outcome.

Begin with a plan that lays out the scope of the remodeling work you want done. By the time you hire a contractor, you should have decided on materials, fixtures, appliances, and other items. If you've decided on any changes to the floor plan, be sure to add the specifics to your plan. The more details, the better. Add everything you can think of, down to the brass pulls for the kitchen cupboards.

Once you have this plan, start talking to contractors to get estimates and formal bids. Ask around for local contractor recommendations at your local hardware store, or go online and read client reviews. Good contractors tend to be very busy, so expect a waiting period from the time you contact them to the time they can start on the project. Be sure to seek out a contractor with experience in the job you need done. If you need a patio installed, scroll past them if they specialize in kitchens and baths.

When speaking to the contractor, make sure you're clear on which parts of the project the contractor will handle and which will go to a subcontractor. Ask for proof of licensing, insurance, and any relevant subcontractors' licenses. Check contractor credentials with your local Better Business Bureau.

Only sign a detailed contract, and be sure you understand every detail of the contract before signing. Be sure to get the proper permits for your project. A good contractor will be able to talk you through getting permits. In some places, contractors are able to get the permits themselves. Check in with the contractor regularly during the course of the project to avoid errors and miscommunication.

Searching online for "good general contractors near me" or getting referrals from a hardware or home improvement store is a first step to hiring a contractor. Take certain precautions before hiring a contractor to prevent costly headaches later on.

Begin by working with a professional architect or designer who's able to provide all the information a contractor will need. A designer or architect can also create the necessary drawings to submit for obtaining a permit. Include details like finishes, fixtures, plumbing work, electrical installations, and possible millwork.

Come up with a specifications list in advance. Write down the details of every element you want placed into the project, from the front door to the floor tiles that you want. Calculate to make sure all your selections fall within your budget and meet your personal requirements.

Make sure your contractor has the proper licensing and insurance. Check out a potential contractor’s previous work. They should be able to offer examples. When you interview contractors, remember that you'll spend a lot of time working with this person. You need to feel you can trust them because unexpected situations are bound to come up. Perhaps you didn't consider what style of door handle you want for the master bathroom, or the carpet you selected for the living room is no longer available. These types of situations happen with any project, so do your best to remain patient throughout the construction process.

See to it that your contractor provides a timeline that they can stick to and that works with your needs. Get a list of subcontractors they use, and look into their history. Use careful consideration when choosing your contractor for the most successful outcome.

Be sure your general contractor is licensed and insured. They should have both contractor’s liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. An insured contractor will take responsibility for the project and for anything that happens at the worksite. Make sure their insurance covers any subcontractors or that they only work with insured third parties.

Ask for proof of insurance right away. Hiring an uninsured contractor may seem less expensive, but it could cost you down the road. In the event of a job-site injury or property damage, a properly insured contractor will shield you from potentially catastrophic costs. Depending on the state you live in, if a worker is injured on your property and their general contractor didn't carry the proper insurance, you might be liable for the cost of treating their injuries.

Homeowners’ insurance policies cover property damage. Some also cover limited injury liability, but these policies have limitations. Even in the unlikely event that your policy covers 100 percent of liability, your premiums would most certainly go up. Contractors insurance ensures that you don't have to cover any costs unrelated to the project completion itself.

If a contractor is reliable, they'll be licensed and carry insurance, and if they don't have a license, no company will insure them. Proof of proper licensing and insurance is a sure sign of a reliable contractor.

Recent reviews for Northbrook General Contractors

10577

awesome electrician very professional, the job was complete before expected and at a great price.... would highly recommend.

- Linda Smith
52728

Lupfer Builders has done a complete kitchen remodel as well as a mudroom update and both experiences were great. Would definitely recommend.

- Debby Burns
52772

Quality, professional work. Always on time and have used LB for numerous projects both large and small. 👍

- Glenn Baruck
52716

Awesome!, our kitchen came out great , and Dave was very creative and easy to deal with

- DAVID LUPFER
87955

Excellent value. Excellent to keep appointment. Excellent responsiveness in communication.

Excellent customer service and work completed. I will definitely recommend to others. Great work!

- Kenneth Riek
34352

Angel Quinones is a person that is fully dedicated to his job. Thank you for a job well done on remodeling my Kitchen and Bathroom.

34960

Angel is a very responsive contractor and is dedicated to satisfying the needs and request of his customers. I can say first hand that if something he has worked has a problem down the road he is willing to fix the problem and get the job done correct. I ...

- Tracy Robertson
85654

- ONE IN A MILLION CONTRACTOR - Angel is that unbelievable contractor who does the job on time, at a reasonable price, exactly the way you want it and cleans up after work every night. He redid our kitchen from scratch, set up a temporary kitchen for us...

- beth jacobs
65500

I originally contracted Angel to remove an old brick patio and build a deck, along with redoing my water damaged family room. Angel and his exceptional crew are extremely hard workers - very professional, knowledgeable, polite, and down to earth. I was ...

- Carolyn Staley
34835

Angel and his crew are detail minded, friendly and honest I enjoyed the experience and they did an awesome job for me I highly recommend him and his crew. Thank You so much and will definitely call again.

- Juaquin Hernandez
36294

I had a wonderfull experience with Angel. He did everything he said he woukd in a timely basses. He cleaned up the job site every day. He came prepared with all the necessary tools and finished on time and on budget.

- Andy Marks
70915

I hired Mr. Quinones to rebuild my deck and stairs. His workers were the best crew that I employed in my 80 years. Work was done professionally, promptly and at a very competitive price. Excellent work and ethics.

- Dominica Kaphusman

Everything You Need to Know About Northbrook General Contractors

I’m searching for General Contractors servicing my zip code in Northbrook.

Many general contractors provide service to multiple zip codes in and around Northbrook. Browse through a sample of the General Contractors in Northbrook below to find the right professional in your area for your project. Remember to contact each of these professionals individually to ask about their prices, recent successful general contractor services jobs, how they bill, and what licenses or permits they have or will have to get for your job:

  • Richardson and Sons Construction:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 60134
  • Dardon Construction, Inc.:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 60622, 60069, 60160, 60666 and 60675
  • My Super Handyman.co.:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 60201, 60422 and 60141

If you weren't able to find the right general contractor company that services your Northbrook zip code, don't worry. Try contacting the company directly to ask them what surrounding areas they also service near Northbrook.

General Contractor Services isn’t exactly what I’m looking for. Are there more specific services similar to general contractors available in Northbrook?

If you’ve determined that general contractor services are not quite what you were looking for, or if you had a specific project in mind that is similar to general contractor services, we can still help you find the right professional in Northbrook.

Northbrook has 50 general contractor professionals that can help you with your general contractor services job. Head to our Pros Page to find specific general contractors-pros in Northbrook.

Who are the best General Contractors in Northbrook?

We've found 50 general contractor providers that are available to you in Northbrook.

Keep in mind that every project has different requirements, and some general contractor professionals maybe be more equipped to handle the specifications of your general contractor services work than others. Talk to multiple general contractors before deciding which one is right for you. You will want to consider how much they charge, if they are properly licensed for general contractor services work in Northbrook, and if your project is a fit. Here are some suggested professionals and companies to get you started:

  • CALLAHAN & PETERS INC
    • Location: Northbrook
  • Archway Home Remodeling
    • Location: Northbrook
  • Sport Court Midwest
    • Location: Northbrook

All General Contractors in Northbrook, IL

Porch Pro Headshot SOYFER ELECTRIC CO
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(1)
Soyfer Electric Inc., Licensed in Chicago specializing in electrical contracting and electrical supply in Northbrook and the Chicago land area since 1978. connect with us! www.Soyferelectric.com www.Twitter.com/soyferelectric www.facebook.com/soyferelectric www.soyferelectric.blogspot.com www.Soyfe...Read more about SOYFER ELECTRIC CO
Soyfer Electric Inc., Licensed in Chicago specializing in electrical contracting and electrical supply in Northbrook and the Chicago land area since 1978. connect with us! www.Soyferelectric.com www.Twitter.com/soyferelectric www.facebook.com/soyferelectric www.soyferelectric.blogspot.com www.Soyfe...Read more about SOYFER ELECTRIC CO
Porch Pro Headshot Aguayo Brick And Fence
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(17)
Aguayo Brick And Fence Wheeling, IL, 60090 (224) 305-4104 Aguayo Brick And Fence is a fence contractor based in Wheeling, IL. We provide fence repair, snow removal and more. Do not hesitate to give us a call. Fence, Fence Repair, New Fence Installation, Fence Replacement, Fence Company, Fence Repai...Read more about Aguayo Brick And Fence
Aguayo Brick And Fence Wheeling, IL, 60090 (224) 305-4104 Aguayo Brick And Fence is a fence contractor based in Wheeling, IL. We provide fence repair, snow removal and more. Do not hesitate to give us a call. Fence, Fence Repair, New Fence Installation, Fence Replacement, Fence Company, Fence Repai...Read more about Aguayo Brick And Fence
Porch Pro Headshot Best Garage Door Repair Deerfield
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
We promise effective, reliable, and low-priced garage door repair service. Our repairmen are all trained and equipped to efficiently handle every service we provide. These services include garage door spring repair, sensor installation, opener programming, and many more. We can do the work whenever ...Read more about Best Garage Door Repair Deerfield
We promise effective, reliable, and low-priced garage door repair service. Our repairmen are all trained and equipped to efficiently handle every service we provide. These services include garage door spring repair, sensor installation, opener programming, and many more. We can do the work whenever ...Read more about Best Garage Door Repair Deerfield
Porch Pro Headshot Northbrook Garage Door Repair
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
Northbrook Garage Door Repair services, specializes in garage door repair, spring repair, and garage door opener repair. We also replace and install new. We are specialist in the service, repair and maintenance of residential garage doors and openers.
Northbrook Garage Door Repair services, specializes in garage door repair, spring repair, and garage door opener repair. We also replace and install new. We are specialist in the service, repair and maintenance of residential garage doors and openers.
Porch Pro Headshot Garage Door Repair Masters Wheeling
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
We are known for our budget-friendly garage door service that is proven to work. We have reliable and qualified garage door repair technicians to deal with any concern on your garage door, as well as opener. We can handle all concerns on any model of doors and openers.
We are known for our budget-friendly garage door service that is proven to work. We have reliable and qualified garage door repair technicians to deal with any concern on your garage door, as well as opener. We can handle all concerns on any model of doors and openers.
Porch Pro Headshot Peter Heil Photography
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
Peter Heil Photography Glencoe, IL, 60022 (847) 224-0846 Peter Heil Photography provides a professional commercial photography, PR, and events for people in Glencoe, IL. So pick up the phone and call us now: (847) 224-0846 Digital Photography, Professional Family Photography, Black And White Photogr...Read more about Peter Heil Photography
Peter Heil Photography Glencoe, IL, 60022 (847) 224-0846 Peter Heil Photography provides a professional commercial photography, PR, and events for people in Glencoe, IL. So pick up the phone and call us now: (847) 224-0846 Digital Photography, Professional Family Photography, Black And White Photogr...Read more about Peter Heil Photography
Porch Pro Headshot Continental Design & Remodeling Ltd
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
Based in Glenview, Continental Design & Remodeling Ltd is a remodeling contractor. Providing sunroom construction, home addition, and wine cellar design, they have been in business since 2005. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has accredited Continental Design & Remodeling Ltd.
Based in Glenview, Continental Design & Remodeling Ltd is a remodeling contractor. Providing sunroom construction, home addition, and wine cellar design, they have been in business since 2005. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has accredited Continental Design & Remodeling Ltd.
Porch Pro Headshot Brian Painting & Restoration
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
Brian Painting & Restoration provides quality painting services in the Highland Park IL 60035 area. The company specializes in interior & exterior painting and is known for its professionalism in the entire region. Call us now to make sure you are working with a reliable company! Highwood IL;Fort Sh...Read more about Brian Painting & Restoration
Brian Painting & Restoration provides quality painting services in the Highland Park IL 60035 area. The company specializes in interior & exterior painting and is known for its professionalism in the entire region. Call us now to make sure you are working with a reliable company! Highwood IL;Fort Sh...Read more about Brian Painting & Restoration
Porch Pro Headshot Garage Door Group Chicago
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
(9)
Porch Pro Headshot MP. REMODELING
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
Mp Remodeling & Repair Service was started in 2004. We are a full service remodeling company providing services from small handyman projects to building custom homes and additions. Let us help you accomplish your next project. Big or small we do it all.
Mp Remodeling & Repair Service was started in 2004. We are a full service remodeling company providing services from small handyman projects to building custom homes and additions. Let us help you accomplish your next project. Big or small we do it all.
Porch Pro Headshot The Water Stoppers
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
We are a waterproofing company the specializes in epoxy injection crack repair work to cracks in concrete foundations.
We are a waterproofing company the specializes in epoxy injection crack repair work to cracks in concrete foundations.
Porch Pro Headshot Van Cura, Don Construction Company
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois
Porch Pro Headshot P & B All Star Construction
General Contractors
Serves Northbrook, Illinois

Latest projects near Northbrook

Recent projects booked on Porch
Northbrook 60062
Residential Building
Start Date
Within a week
Project type
Something else
Residential building project type
Putting 4 new fixtures in the closets and in the mud room. Very basic simple job
Extent of design prep work
No
Glenview 60026
Demolition
Start Date
Within a month
Demolition work type
Sections of home interior
Home interior items to demolish
wants to confirm its not a load bearing wall to have removed to expand living space